In September of last year, Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc on the southern United States, causing significant damage and loss of life. The storm was one of the costliest in US history, and it had a particularly devastating impact on Florida. In this blog, we will answer the question of how many homes were destroyed by Hurricane Ian in Florida and explore resources available for homeowners affected by the storm.
What Category was Hurricane Ian?
Last September, Hurricane Ian made landfall in southwest Florida as a powerful storm, wreaking havoc and causing over $112 billion in damage in the United States. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Ian briefly reached maximum Category 5 status with winds estimated at 161 mph (259 kph) on September 28, making it one of the most powerful tropical cyclones on record. However, after passing by the Dry Tortugas islands, Ian weakened to a Category 4 storm, with winds of 150 mph (241 kph), before hitting Florida later that day.
Although it was downgraded to Category 4, Ian’s impact was still incredibly devastating. It caused over 150 deaths directly or indirectly and was declared the costliest hurricane in Florida’s history and the third-costliest hurricane in the United States overall. The NOAA releases reports on all major tropical storms, and Ian’s is no exception. The storm is now classified as one of the deadliest in history, alongside Camille, Hugo, Andrew, Katrina, Wilma, and Michael.
How Many Homes Were Destroyed By Hurricane Ian?
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian’s impact on Fort Myers, Florida, in September, many residents struggled to find shelter. The storm caused widespread destruction, with 5,000 homes destroyed and another 30,000 severely damaged, according to CoStar Group Inc. The damage has left many families searching for temporary accommodations, but they face competition from construction workers who have arrived to aid in the restoration efforts.
More: Why Insurance Companies Will Underpay Hurricane Ian Victims
For many locals already priced out of the rental market due to record-high prices, their only option is to move in with family members or live in campers, trailers, or mobile homes. The devastation caused by Hurricane Ian has had a profound and lasting impact on the area and its residents.
What Resources Are Available For Homeowners Affected By The Hurricane?
Apply for FEMA Assistance
Florida survivors of Hurricane Ian have received over $1 billion in assistance from FEMA as part of the $5.5 billion in federal support provided by the Biden-Harris administration to help families and communities jumpstart their recovery. The Individual Assistance funds are aimed at helping survivors cover expenses related to rent, basic home repairs, and other disaster-related costs. The U.S. Small Business Administration has also approved $1.68 billion in low-interest disaster loans, while the National Flood Insurance Program has paid $2.29 billion in claims. Furthermore, FEMA’s Public Assistance program has provided $552 million to the state to cover debris removal and emergency response costs.
FEMA continues to offer extensive support to Floridians, including funds for rent, home repairs, hotel stays, apartment leases, travel trailers, and manufactured housing units. Over 70,000 Florida households have been approved for $647 million in financial assistance for rent or basic home repairs.
In addition, over 4,500 families have benefited from temporary accommodation under FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Additionally, FEMA is placing eligible applicants in 313 apartment homes under its Direct Lease program. It is also working on leasing apartments, repairing them, and placing hurricane survivors under its Multi-Family Lease and Repair program.
Talk to an Experienced Property Insurance Attorney
In addition to the resources provided by FEMA, homeowners affected by Hurricane Ian may benefit from talking to an experienced property insurance attorney to know how many homes were destroyed by Hurricane Ian. The attorneys at RRBH Law are dedicated to helping homeowners navigate the complicated process of filing insurance claims and negotiating with insurance companies.
We understand homeowners’ unique challenges in the aftermath of a hurricane, and we are committed to providing personalized attention and high-quality legal representation to our clients.
If you are a homeowner affected by Hurricane Ian, don’t hesitate to contact RRBH Law at 305-800-4663 for a free consultation and discuss your options for pursuing compensation for your losses.